619 Materials Handling Safety

Operator Attention

The operator must not engage in any practice or activity that diverts their attention while engaged in operating the equipment, such as the use of a cell phone (except when used for signal communications).

Operator Responsibility While the Load is Suspended

The operator must not leave the controls while the load is suspended except where ALL of the following criteria are met:

1. The operator remains adjacent to the equipment and is not engaged in any activities that take attention away from his or her duties.
2. The load is to be held suspended for a period of time exceeding normal lifting operations.
3. The competent person determines that it is safe to do so and implements measures necessary to restrain the boom hoist and telescoping, load, swing, and outrigger or stabilizer functions.
4. Barricades or caution lines and notices are erected to prevent all employees from entering the fall zone. No employees are permitted in the fall zone.

The four criteria immediately above do not apply to working gear (such as slings, spreader bars, ladders, and welding machines) where:

• the weight of the working gear is negligible relative to the lifting capacity of the equipment as positioned, and
• the working gear is suspended over an area other than an entrance or exit.

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